Hearing aids are crucial devices that improve your hearing and boost your quality of life. They do, however, need to be regularly cleaned and properly maintained just like any technology does. Regular maintenance can substantially increase their lifespan and ensure you’re hearing clearly. In this guide, we’ll go through the steps to properly clean and care for your hearing aids.
Keeping your hearing aids clean and getting professional tunings
You should clean your hearing aids at least once every week. The longevity of your hearing aid will be extended, and the sound quality will be improved by doing a quick, easy cleaning routine.
Together with your regular at-home care, periodic professional maintenance by a hearing specialist is advised. It’s similar to a dental visit where professional cleanings are important alongside your normal at-home cleaning and maintenance routine. Typically, you are advised to bring your hearing aids in twice a year for a deep clean by a specialist. This helps to identify any issues your device may have and helps keep it in prime working order.
Simple care guidelines for everyday use
Taking a few simple precautions can significantly increase the lifespan and performance of your hearing aids. Avoid common pitfalls by employing these tips:
- Safe Storage: When they’re not being used, keep your hearing aids stored in a protective case or in their charger to avoid exposure to dirt or physical damage.
- Use a Dehumidifier: Storing your hearing aids in a dehumidifier while you sleep can help keep them dry and free of moisture that might cause malfunction.
- Protect From Extreme Temperatures: Avoid subjecting your hearing aids to severe weather conditions. If it’s especially cold or hot, leave your devices inside instead of bringing them outside.
- Wash Hands Before Handling: Skin oils and debris can impact the function of your hearing aids so be certain you clean and dry your hands before handling them.
- Keep Them Free of Moisture and Chemicals: Moisture and chemicals can be detrimental to your hearing aids. Before swimming, taking a shower, or using products like hair spray, make sure you remove them.
- Clean Before Bed: Cleaning your hearing aids at night gives them a chance to dry completely before you use them again in the morning.
Tools for proper hearing aid care
You will need the right tools to effectively maintain your hearing aids. Here are some of the things you can expect to find in a hearing aid care kit:
- Wax pick or loop: For delicately cleaning out earwax from small crevices.
- Cleaning brush: For cleaning excessive wax and dust.
- Hearing aid dryer: Helps eliminate moisture, particularly after a long day of use.
- Slim tube cleaner: For getting rid of debris trapped in the tubes.
- Microfiber cloth: Great for wiping down the surface of your hearing aids.
Your hearing specialist can direct you to the best tools and practices to keep your hearing aids in excellent condition.
Detailed cleaning determined by hearing aid type
There are some minor differences in how you clean different types of hearing aids. Here are tailored cleaning instructions for two common types of hearing aids: In-The-Ear (ITE) and Behind-The-Ear (BTE).
Cleaning In-The-Ear (ITE) hearing aids
- Wipe the Exterior: Use a soft microfiber cloth to clean the entire outer surface, removing any residue.
- Brush Debris Away: Holding your hearing aid face down, gently brush away any debris or wax that has built up on the surface.
- Remove Wax with a Loop: Use a wax loop or pick to thoroughly remove any remaining earwax.
- Clear the Ventilation Tube: Be certain that the vent tube is clear by pushing a slim cleaning tool through it.
Cleaning Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids
- Clear the Tubing: Run a pipe cleaner through the tubing to remove wax or moisture, then clean the outside with a cloth.
- Soak the Ear Mold: Loosen any buildup on the ear molds by detaching them and soaking them in warm soapy water. Use a tubing blower to get rid of excess moisture and dry with a clean cloth.
- Detach the Tubing: The first thing you need to do is detach the tube from the device.
- Reassemble and Test: Reassemble and test your hearing aids once everything is dry.
- Clean the Microphone Openings: Brush the microphone openings to ensure they’re clear of debris.
- Use a Wax Pick: Use a loop pick to eliminate any stubborn wax that may remain.
- Clean the Aid: Gently wipe away any dirt or wax while holding the device face down, paying specific attention to the area around the receiver and microphone.
Effective hygiene can help you avoid infections
Outside of maintaining your devices, it’s just as important to clean your ears. Earwax buildup not only interferes with your hearing aids but can also lead to discomfort and infection. Routinely cleaning your ears and hearing aids will help lessen the chance of these issues.
Schedule a professional hearing aid cleaning
If you have any concerns about your hearing aids or would like to set up a professional cleaning, reach out to us today.
Professional maintenance is key to ensuring your hearing aids continue to serve you well for years to come.
